Asthma and acupuncture
Each season brings with it particular ailments. With the onset of Autumn and the damp, colder weather, many asthma sufferers notice a worsening of their symptoms. Research indicates that environmental factors are likely to be the cause of the progression of this epidemic disease. It is very interesting though, that in Chinese medicine the lungs are associated with the Autumn season. The ancient Chinese were no strangers to treating asthma related conditions. The first reference to ‘wheezing’ was in “The Prescriptions of the Golden Chest” in AD 220!
There are several different types of asthma. ‘Allergic’ asthma often begins at the age of 4 or 5, and is triggered by allergens such as dust, house dust mite droppings, pollen and animal hair. Allergic asthma is often accompanied with eczema. ‘Non-allergic’ asthma often begins from the age of 40 onwards, and mostly in women. It may be caused by stress, chest infection, the inhalation of chemicals, cold air, food preservatives or a myriad of other factors. In addition to this there is also ‘mixed’ asthma (a combination of the above), ‘exercise induced’ and ‘nocturnal’ asthma.
Acupuncture can help with asthma in a number of ways:
- An acupuncturist treats the whole body, not just the symptoms. Regular treatment helps to re-balance and reinforce the body’s immune system. This way the body becomes less susceptible to irritants. It strengthens the defensive energy that blocks out pathogens such as pollen, bacteria and viruses. This is important in helping to relieve seasonal allergies and other allergic reactions such as asthma.
- Asthma attacks can often be triggered or worsened by stress. Acupuncture is very successful in relieving stress. When we are relaxed, so are the muscles in our chest, and breathing becomes easier.
- Research shows that certain acupuncture points can be used to successfully treat and relieve more acute asthma symptoms, such as extreme shortness of breath and wheezing.
- Acupuncture treatment can be used alongside standard medication such as inhalers, antihistamines etc.
- Children generally respond quickly to minimal treatment. For young children, non-invasive techniques can be used (without the use of needles), such as tapping certain acupuncture points, and gently stroking meridians, to encourage the flow of Qi. Parents can then continue this treatment at home.
Originating in China thousands of years ago, acupuncture is a way of adjusting the body’s ‘Qi’ or ‘life energy’ by the insertion and manipulation of fine sterile needles into carefully selected acupuncture points along the meridians of the body. Acupuncture is used to relieve symptoms of asthma, eczema, arthritis, headaches, menstrual imbalances, digestive disturbances, in addition to many other health problems, as well as to promote general well being. The purpose of acupuncture treatment is to strengthen the Qi, and enable it to flow freely around the body, enabling us to remain strong and healthy in body, mind and spirit.
Before an acupuncturist begins to treat a person, many factors are taken into account, such as medical history, lifestyle, diet etc. Treatments will be tailored specifically to each individual. No two asthma suffers would be treated in exactly the same way.
It is very interesting that when people come for treatment for a condition other than asthma, often they comment that their asthma has become much less of a problem. This is an indication that the body is healing and re-balancing itself.
If you would like to make an appointment, or book a free consultation,with Linda Colclasure, one of the Earlsdon Practice's acupuncturists, please contact us here at the Earlsdon Practice by completing the form on our contact page or call us on 02476 691100. Charges are half price for children 16 and under.